Florida nursing home regulators recently cited four nursing homes for violations which could eventually close the facilities. During the 2001 legislative session, new regulations were implemented that require officials to close nursing homes in which certain serious problems exist.
Of Florida's 700 nursing homes and assisted living facilities, Harborside Healthcare Sarasota, Harborside Healthcare Pinebrook, Harborside Healthcare Naples, and Edgewater Manor Hobe Sound are the first to face possible closure. Edgewater Manor was cited for having a malfunctioning fire detection system and for allowing scalding hot water in residents' room. The Harborside Pinebrook facility allowed residents to become malnourished and dehydrated. In addition, regulators say the home did not act to stop assaults among residents.
Before permanent closure, the facilities will be permitted to make their cases during administrative hearings on the deficiencies.